Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that it has been proven that the Pahalgam incident was a false flag operation. He emphasised that India failed to present evidence to the world, instead showing evidence of aggression. He noted that Pakistan made every possible effort to reduce tensions and expressed gratitude to the U.S. President, acknowledging him as a messenger of peace, particularly thanking Donald Trump for his role in establishing a ceasefire in the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the U.S. Independence Day ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, where he was welcomed by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker. In his address to the ceremony, the Prime Minister congratulated the U.S. on its 249th Independence Day, affirming that both countries are determined to strengthen their relations. He remarked that the Pakistan-U.S. relationship is entering a new era and has a history of long-standing positive ties.
The Prime Minister underscored that both countries uphold democratic traditions and the supremacy of the constitution. He pointed out that the U.S. was among the first nations to recognise Pakistan and mentioned that U.S. plans for Pakistan’s development reflect their close relationship.
Shehbaz Sharif recalled that the global war on terrorism began after 9/11 and noted that Pakistan had completely eradicated terrorism by 2018. He mentioned the heavy toll Pakistan has endured, with 90,000 lives lost and over $150 billion in economic losses due to the war on terrorism. He asserted that Pakistan’s sacrifices in counter-terrorism are unparalleled and reiterated the country’s focus on strengthening its economy, highlighting that Pakistan has always advocated for peace, stability, and prosperity.
He reiterated that there is no doubt the Pahalgam incident was a false flag operation, and criticised India for making accusations without providing solid evidence. The Prime Minister stated that Pakistan offered an impartial investigation into the Pahalgam incident, but instead of responding positively, India chose to act aggressively. He reported that during this tense situation, on May 6 and 7, 33 innocent Pakistanis, including women and children, were martyred and 55 others were injured as India targeted unarmed civilians. In retaliation, Pakistan shot down six Indian aircraft, asserting that it was within their rights to respond.
Further, Shahbaz Sharif mentioned that American friends had reached out to help reduce tensions between Pakistan and India. He noted that on the night of May 9 and 10, India again carried out aggression, but Pakistan welcomed the ceasefire to promote peace in the region. He commended President Trump’s important role in achieving the ceasefire, recognising his efforts to promote peace as commendable.
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